Lots of people are struggling to pay the bills in today’s economy, as evidenced by the more than 150 letters sent to The Press for Thanksgiving Wishes. The Press could not print all the letters it received from those seeking help from readers, but other organizations may be able to provide assistance.

A list of community service organizations providing low-cost services and materials is below.

Referral service hotline

United Way’s 2-1-1 is a free referral service hotline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to all Kent County residents. It provides information about local services and programs to those in need.

Angel Foods Ministries provides brand-name groceries to families who need to stretch their food budget. The non-denominational ministry sells a box of food that ranges in price from $21 to $41 that would average between $70 and $80 at a grocery store.

It accepts food stamps but the program is not limited to low-income families.

Getting harder to keep up with the mortgage payments? Home Repair Services, 1100 South Division Ave., gets between the homeowner and mortgage company. Counselors help with new payments arrangements between homeowners and lending institutions.

Oasis of Hope Center, 522 Leonard St. NW, provides low cost/free medical care to the economically disadvantaged and uninsured who live on the West Side of Grand Rapids. Services include urgent care, wellness exams, ongoing disease monitoring and treatment and cancer screening.